First and foremost, be safe. Don't push it. Get a feel for the track and the car and yourself. Speed will come. You might be passing people on the straights, but you're gonna get clobbered in the corners by an e30 or Miata. It's OK.

Second, have fun! HPDEs are a blast. Talk to people. There is such a wide range of people at these events and most are friendly. Except for Evan.

Third, go for ride alongs when you're not driving. You can learn a lot from riding shotgun with an instructor.

Fourth, find time to watch the other groups. You can learn a lot just by watching the advanced groups on track._________________